They were tipped off by posters put up around campus advertising “Banana Plug.”

The university’s mascot is the “banana slug.” “Plug” is often used as a slang term for someone from whom you can get drugs.

The Justice Department alleged Howard developed the app disguised as a game, but the real purpose was facilitating the sale of illegal drugs, including cocaine, “molly” and “shrooms.”

An affidavit also said customers were invited to make special requests.

The Justice Department said an undercover sting with multiple drug buys ended with Howard being arrested last week.

He's charged with four counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine.

Some students said this is the first time they’d heard of the app.

“I do know that certain people try to get around things and find certain loopholes into things, so I’m not surprised that someone’s done this, but it is definitely extreme,” Simita Patel said.

“That’s the first time I’ve actually heard of someone actually making an app to promote their drug business," Isaiah Cruz said. "I don’t know, that just sounds silly to me putting up posters all around campus, like ‘Come buy drugs from me.’ Yeah, I don’t know. I’m not surprised he got taken down.”

Howard was released after a Tuesday court appearance. He could face decades in prison and millions of dollars in fines if convicted.

Copyright 2019 KGO via CNN. All rights reserved.

64

Currently inColumbus, GA

RECENT CONTENT

President Donald Trump said Thursday that it's time for the United States to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the disputed Golan Heights, an announcement that signals a shift in U.S. policy and comes ahead of the Israeli prime minister's planned visit next week to the White House.